If you though the Lucid Air was and incredible EV that set the bar much higher than any other company, you’re sure to admire the new Gravity. Lucid has done it again, giving us an SUV that could reset the market and show the luxury EV world where their standard should be. This new EV is an evolution from the Air, not just an SUV built to share the same platform.

A better entry

The only demerit of the Lucid Air is the low ride height and doors. This makes it difficult for drivers of nearly every height to enter and exit without hitting their heads. The driving position is also a little tight. Thankfully, the new Gravity SUV changes that. This SUV has a low and smooth look, but it also has a larger ingress and egress position to make it much easier for passengers to enter and exit without too much trouble.

The new Lucid Gravity comes in two suspension heights, making it easy to have a low-riding sporty model or a high-riding version that could be good for light off-road driving. With the lower suspension and smaller wheels, the Gravity appears to be almost carlike, which could make it a good choice for many families.

The seating is versatile

The Gravity comes in two forms, one with seating for five people across two rows and the other offering seven seats across three rows. There could be a six-seat version that arrives later on, but initially, this SUV will be set up to seat five or seven passengers. This means you can have a large cargo hold for your stuff or have a third-row seat for those times when you need more seating for your family and friends.

Technologically advanced

We expect the new Lucid SUV to be a technological marvel, but this SUV does something that you might not expect. It can be had with an available rear-wheel steering system and an air suspension that automatically adjusts based on speed. These tech items improve the ride quality, low-speed handling, and complete driving experience to give you the feeling you want when you get behind the wheel of this new electric SUV.

Expected driving range

The Lucid Air set the bar high. This incredible electric vehicle came with the best driving range in the industry and no other EV found a way to match it. The new Lucid Gravity should have a driving range of 440 miles on a full charge, which is more than enough to allow anyone to drive all week long without recharging.

This driving range is better than the Tesla Model X with 350 miles and the Rivian R1S with a claimed 400 mile driving range. Lucid claims the Gravity can add 200 miles of driving range while charging a 300-kw charge rate. This charging only takes about 15 minutes, which is impressively fast.

The new platform used for the Gravity gives it improved motors when compared to the Air. This SUV also has a low drag coefficient of only 0.24 on some trims, which is incredibly aerodynamic. Unlike the Air, the Gravity won’t have two different rear floor heights based on the battery pack. In the Air, you gain three inches of legroom in the rear seat area with the smaller battery pack, but that won’t be a concern for the Gravity.

Not meant for the trails

The new Lucid Gravity is a capable SUV that could probably go off-road, but the price and luxury build make that a big no-no with this vehicle. Still, the Gravity can tow up to 6,000 pounds, which is pretty good for an SUV that’s meant to be kept on the roads. Expect this new electric SUV to rocket to 60 mph in as little as 3.5 seconds.

The post 2025 Lucid Gravity: High-Tech Luxury Driving In a New Electric SUV first appeared on Ride4Watts.com.

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Your gas-powered vehicle loses power and acceleration while driving in the mountains. This is caused by the extra work a vehicle has to do to drive uphill but also because the air is thinner, and most gas and diesel-powered vehicles are made to perform ideally at sea level. EVs tend to maintain power better in the mountains because they don’t require air to operate the electric motors, but are you losing driving range when going up a mountain?

How well do EVs handle climbing a mountain?

It only makes sense that when a machine is working to go up a mountain road, it takes more energy to complete this task than driving on flat ground. EVs don’t lose power like combustion vehicles because the thinner air doesn’t affect them, but they will lose driving range more rapidly while climbing a mountain than when driving on level ground.
Because your EV will lose some driving range when going up mountains, you need to plan for some range loss when driving these roads. It is smart to know where the nearest electric charging stations are located to plan stops along the way.

Can you regain driving range on the way down?

Driving down a sloped mountain road means you’ll use the engine to handle much of your braking. Electric vehicles not only use engine braking but capture some of that energy by utilizing the regenerative braking system. This energy is sent to the batteries and can add more miles to your driving range.

In a recent test by the team at The Fast Lane, the team learned that EVs regain much of the energy lost from the incline during the decline portion of a mountain drive. They did this test by going up on one side and back down, going in the opposite direction. If you test this out during your mountain drive and continue to go forward toward your destination, there might be some variances in slope, which means you might not recapture as much energy on the way down as you lost on the way up.

What factors impact an electric vehicle’s driving range?

Colder temperatures

Driving on mountain roads that rise high above sea level means you might face some challenges while behind the wheel. Other than the incline and decline of the mountain grades, the air temperature is often colder when you reach high altitudes. This colder temperature could mean driving range loss for an EV, even if all you do is park it for a little while.

Driving style

While not as much an environmental issue as a user problem, your driving style and driving conditions can significantly impact your driving range. When you drive at high speeds or aggressively, you will quickly notice a decrease in your driving range due to the increased energy consumption. Don’t allow other drivers to force you to drive faster or more aggressively than you would normally.

Vehicle makeup

Each electric vehicle has a quoted driving range, and that figure is based on several factors. This number is calculated using battery capacity, vehicle weight, electric motor power, and aerodynamics. Most modern EVs have a 70% useful rate for the maximum driving range.

Charging habits

What are your charging habits? If you typically charge at home and push the battery capacity to 100% of its charge, your battery lie will be reduced. The same can be said if you use fast charging stations almost exclusively. If you choose to charge at home, set a limit for the charge you want on the battery. Stopping below 100% battery charge can extend your battery’s life. The only time you should charge to 100% capacity is when you head out on a road trip and will need to charge several times along the way.

How can you maximize your driving range?

You probably never thought about the driving range of your vehicle until you bought an EV. Electric vehicles come with this concern because you can’t find a charging station on every corner. If you want to maximize your driving range, you should:

• Employ efficient driving habits
• Plan your route
• Avoid poorly maintained roads
• Minimize using climate system in your EV
• Maintain your tires

For the most part, the driving range lost in an electric vehicle while going up a mountain road will be regained on the other side while coming down. This is good to know, but if you drive an EV, you’ve got to keep an eye on that driving range and know where charging stations are located along your route.

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This futuristic SUV came to the market in 2022 and has been one of the most successful and popular electric vehicles in the market. The iX has a spacious cabin with chic styling and comfortable seating for up to five people to enjoy the ride together. Both models use a dual-motor layout with AWD and plenty of power for those looking for some electric excitement in their BMW.

Here’s what the new 2025 model brings to the table.

Very few changes

When you do something right, and the market hasn’t passed you by yet, it’s possible to go ahead and continue onward. That’s basically the philosophy of this BMW electric SUV. The iX carries over into 2025 with very few changes, at least changes that you would notice. The Highway Assist hands-free driving feature now has an eye-tracking tech that allows the driver to change lanes by glancing in the direction of one of the rearview mirrors. The My BMW smartphone app also gains a digital key feature to lock and unlock the iX without using the app, which makes it much more convenient.

One goes up, the other goes down

Typically, when more power or battery capacity is offered, the additional driving range is the result for EVs. The new BMW iX does something a little differently. The xDrive50 model now has 309 miles of driving range when equipped with 19-inch wheels. That’s two additional miles of range compared to the previous model year. If this version is equipped with 20-inch wheels, it has 303 miles of range, and with the 21-inch wheels, the result is 302 miles of driving range.

When we turn to the M60 model, the iX loses 11-12 miles of driving range, which is nearly four percent compared to the 2024 model year versions. This means the diving range goes down from 296 miles to 284 miles for versions with 21-inch wheels and 285 miles if this BMW is equipped with 22-inch wheels.

Most of the other driving specs appear to be the same from one year to the next.

Is this BMW electric SUV more expensive than before?

BMW increased the price of the xDrive50 models by $150, which is a minuscule change in prices. Many times, we see significant increases in prices from one year to the next, but that’s not the case here. The M60 models maintain its starting price with no increase at all. This electric SUV doesn’t qualify for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit when purchased, which means shoppers must least this SUV to enjoy the benefits of this credit.

How much power does the iX provide?

The base model of the BMW iX has plenty of power at 516 horsepower from the dual-motor AWD system. This is an excellent power figure, allowing this SUV to rocket down the road in a hurry. Turn up the heat in the M60 model, which sends 610 horsepower to the wheels. BMW includes an adjustable air suspension and rear-wheel steering as options for both models, which can make this SUV more capable and fun on any road. There’s very little road noise entering the cabin during your drive, making this SUV feel more luxurious than ever before.

When it comes to quickness, this SUV has what you need. The base model rockets to 60 mph in only 4.0 seconds, while the more powerful M60 can hit that figure in 3.2 seconds. These numbers certainly make the iX a fun and active SUV that you can enjoy on any road.

What you’ll find inside

When you’re thinking about size, consider the BMW X5. The iX is about the same size as the X5, making it easy to understand how this BMW electric SUV can be ideal for a family of five to enjoy their time on the road together. The iX’s interior design is simple and modern, with lots of high-tech features. You’ll see a large, curved touchscreen instrument panel and a hexagonal-shaped steering wheel.

Over you head is a panoramic sunroof featuring an electrochromic shading option which gives the overhead screen an opaque look. The front seats are heated and offer power functions, making it easy to get comfortable when you sit up front.

Is the new 2025 BMW iX the right choice for you? This electric BMW SUV is extremely similar to its predecessor, offering only minor upgrades to make it just a little bit better than before.

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What Drivers Should Consider Before They Buy

Everyone knows the benefits of buying a new EV. Electric vehicles don’t use fossil fuels, reducing their environmental impact and saving drivers money. These days, most used car dealerships have at least one or two in their showrooms. But are they worth buying?

Batteries Are the Biggest Worry for Used EV Buyers

Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than their gas-powered alternatives. Fewer moving parts means less to go wrong, and EV owners’ typical driving habits further improve the situation. The limited range of most EVs means people don’t drive them as far.

What most drivers worry about when buying used EVs isn’t the general condition of the cars but the batteries. Most major battery components come with manufacturers’ warranties, and the EVs found at used car dealerships are usually well within the eight-to-ten-year warranty periods.

The flip side of the coin is that when EV batteries reach the end of their warranty periods, they are expensive to replace. The cost of purchasing a new battery pack starts at around $4,000 and can range as high as $10,000 for some models.

Eco-Friendly Drivers Can Do Their Part for the Planet Twice

Buying an EV takes one more combustion-powered engine off the road. That’s good for the environment since the pollutants emitted by traditional gas-powered cars contribute to climate change.

Buying any vehicles at used car dealerships is also better for the environment since it reduces the need for natural resource extraction. The initial manufacturing of an electric vehicle has a larger carbon footprint. Drivers who buy them new don’t start making up for the higher manufacturing emissions for 6 to 18 months.

Used EVs have already offset their initially higher emissions. Buying them instead of going for brand-new models right off the factory lines means drivers are doing their part for the future of the planet not once but twice.

Used EVs Don’t Make Sense for Everyone

That EVs run off electricity instead of gas is what sets them apart from traditional vehicles with combustion engines. Unfortunately, it also makes them a poor choice for some drivers.

EVs require frequent charging and older models have shorter ranges and lower battery capacity. Drivers who don’t have a place to plug in at home may find themselves at a disadvantage. The price of public charging stations varies significantly.

Renters may have difficulty convincing landlords to install dedicated 240-volt plugs. Plus, not all homes can support EV charger installation. If a home has old wiring, an electrician will need to fix it. Even if the house has modern wiring, installing an EV charger can cost thousands of dollars.

All these factors make it essential that buyers consider whether a used EV is the right solution. Talking to experts at reputable used car dealerships about the pros and cons of purchasing an electric vehicle can make the decision easier.

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Until the infrastructure exists to support EVs in a similar manner to gas-powered vehicles, charging time, charger locations, and driving range will continue to be a serious consideration. Of course, there are other aspects of EVs that you’ve got to think about as well. Because these vehicles are new to the market, many automakers offer incentives, and the federal government also has a tax break for most EVs.

Here are some things you want to consider when you’re ready to buy an electric car.

Where do you go, and what do you take with you?

The early days of EVs offered nothing more than fully-electric hybrid vehicles, with Tesla being the only outlier. Today, EVs come in all shapes and sizes. There are off-road SUVs, pickup trucks, sedans, family-sized SUVs, and hatchbacks. The only thing missing is an all-electric minivan, but that’s probably coming. With this wide array of options, it’s important to know what you need and where you go when selecting the right EV to drive.

Where will you get fuel?

Owners of gas-powered cars don’t typically worry about finding a gas station but rather the price of a gallon of fuel. Unfortunately, electric car owners don’t have this same comfort. The infrastructure supporting EVs is still being created and expanding, which puts you at a disadvantage. Before buying an EV, find the local public chargers that you can use and find out whether or not you can install an at-home Level 2 charger for your overnight charging needs. If you can’t refuel your EV with electricity, it’s not worth buying.

Will your EV qualify for tax incentives?

The first round of the Federal EV Tax Credit was more of a blanket credit for hybrids, PHEVs, and EVs. This early version also had a vehicle limit, which was exceeded by a few automakers. The most recent tax credit opens things up for automakers that previously exceeded the limit while adding several constraints regarding the type of vehicle, where battery materials are mined, and where the vehicles are built. Will your EV qualify for these tax incentives?

How much driving range is required?

Electric cars list the driving range to help owners understand how far they can go between recharges at home. If you spend all of your time driving around town, you might not need more than 200 miles of driving range or an entire week. On the other hand, if you have a long commute or like to take weekend trips, you’ll want EV with at least 300 miles of driving range. Most EVs offer more than 200 miles, and some reach as high as 400 miles of range.

How much fun are you looking for in your EV?

Some EVs are advertised as fun, exciting, and fast. The Tesla Model S Plaid is considered the fastest electric vehicle in the world, but the new Lucid Air Sapphire might take this title away. Some EVs are built with off-road qualities, making adventures into the wilderness possible and fun. Although electric cars drive and feel different from traditional gas-powered vehicles, they can fit your lifestyle and offer the fun and excitement you desire.

Should you buy or lease your electric car?

This might be the second-most important question you’ll answer. Most advice normally points to buying over leasing, but EV technology is advancing so rapidly that leasing could be a much better option. Electric vehicles are new enough that some uncertainty still exists regarding the lifespan of EV batteries. If you want to err on the side of caution, it’s probably best to lease your first or second EV until more is known about the longevity of these new vehicles.

Would a PHEV or hybrid be a better option right now?

The newness of the electric car world could cause us to pause and take a step back. If you’re unsure whether or not you should drive a fully-electric car, you can dip a toe in the proverbial alternative fuel market with a traditional hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicle. A PHEV could be the best option because most offer some of the same tax benefits as EVs and also provide 20 to 40 miles of all-electric driving range. Hybrid vehicles utilize a traditional gas engine for most of the driving, which makes them much more versatile than EVs.

Are you ready to buy an EV? Use these tips to help understand if you, the auto market, or the infrastructure is ready for you to drive a fully-electric vehicle.

The post How to Buy an Electric Car first appeared on Ride4Watts.com.

The post How to Buy an Electric Car appeared first on Ride4Watts.com.

For most people, the answer to the initial question is a desire to save the environment with less pollution. Some might say they are tired of paying the high price of gas, which makes sense, while others are looking for a way to get into a new vehicle and know that the government expects a transition to electric vehicles in the future.

Let’s look at some things to consider when you want to buy an electric car.

Why do you want to buy an electric car?

Starting with our initial question, which is the most important question in car buying. If your answer is that you want to reduce pollution and save the environment, the advice given might surprise you. In this case, you should drive your gas-powered car until it dies. If you trade it or sell it, another person will drive it, and the EV you buy only adds to a climate-negative industry. Of course, the other answers given are sensible reasons to switch to an EV.

Will the EV be your only car?

Some households have two or more vehicles parked outside, but if yours isn’t one of these, you’ll need to think about what you need in your new EV. If this is the only car you own, it’s important to have enough driving range for more than a single day of driving. On average, most EVs offer between 250 and 300 miles of driving range, with some reaching over 400 miles of range. Choose the EV that can deliver enough driving for a few days.

Is your EV going to be the second car?

If the EV is meant to be the second car in your household, you’ve got a lot more flexibility. In this case, you can choose a used model with as little as 150 miles of driving range, and it should be a great fit for your family. A pre-owned EV should come at a much lower price point and give you enough driving range to handle your weekly errands and running the kids to their activities. An EV as a second vehicle is a great choice for fuel savings.

Where will you change your EV?

Public charging stations aren’t located on every corner of America like gas stations. Although the infrastructure of public chargers is growing, most EV owners are expected to have at-home Level 2 charging stations. If you live in an apartment building or condo, it can be difficult to have an at-home charger installed. Before you purchase an electric car, you’ll need to know where you will charge, especially when you need to charge your batteries to 100%.

Do you like to take road trips?

Some people travel across the country every year in their vehicles, but some prefer to fly, ride on a train, or take a bus. If your new electric car is your only vehicle, road trips become challenging. Most EVs take more than 30 minutes to reach 80% of the maximum driving range at public charging stations. This means an EV with 300 miles of driving range is reduced to 240 miles. An alternative option that still meets most EV standards is a plug-in hybrid which uses a gas-powered engine and electric motor.

Where will you charge the EV during a road trip?

Most electric cars include apps that can help you locate public charging stations along your route, making it easy to find a place to refuel your EV. That said, some chargers lack proper maintenance and might not connect to your EV as easily as a gas pump. It’s important when heading out on a road trip to consider a primary and secondary location to charge the batteries.

Are there any incentives to buying an EV?

Most electric vehicles are much more expensive than their gasoline counterparts. With an average price of more than $60,000 before incentives, you’ll want to know how to reduce the cost of an EV. Currently, some EVs qualify for the $7,500 Federal EV Tax Credit, which reduces your tax liability when you file. If you don’t normally owe at least $7,500, this credit might not be of much value to you. Still, fueling an EV with electricity is much cheaper than gasoline, which is a huge benefit to driving an EV.

Before you dive into the electric vehicle world, you should understand what it means to drive one of these new vehicles. You’ll find many benefits but also some warnings when switching from a gas-fueled vehicle to an all-electric model.

The post Choosing the Right Electric Car: What You Need to Know first appeared on Ride4Watts.com.

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